National Theatre announces the multi award-winning production Present Laughter is returning to the big screen on 18 July 2024 with National Theatre Live. Matthew Warchus (Matilda The Musical) directs the ‘slick, witty and unexpectedly tender’ (★★★★ The Stage) production of Noel Coward’s provocative comedy, filmed live from its sold out run at The Old Vic in 2019.
Audiences worldwide can watch Andrew Scott (Vanya, All of Us Strangers, Fleabag) in his Olivier award-winning ‘revelatory performance’ (★★★★★ Telegraph) as Gary Essendine, a star actor preparing to embark on an overseas tour, alongside Indira Varma (Game of Thrones), who also won an Olivier award for her ‘excellent’ (★★★★ Guardian) performance, and Sophie Thompson (Four Weddings and a Funeral).
Engulfed by an escalating identity crisis as his many and various relationships compete for his attention, Gary’s few remaining days at home are a chaotic whirlwind of love, sex, panic and soul-searching. Audiences can find their nearest screening at Presentlaughter.ntlive.com
Caroline Maddison, Deputy Director of Digital Products at the National Theatre has said, “Present Laughter is a fan favourite for National Theatre Live audiences and a brilliant addition to the NT Live programme this year, following our successful releases of Dear England, Vanya, The Motive and the Cue and Nye. We’re thrilled to rerelease this incredible production from The Old Vic to cinemas this summer and make it accessible to ever wider audiences.”
Sky Arts is the Headline Sponsor of National Theatre Live in the UK.